Happy Birthday Papaw!

We went to see him and took him warm snuggly shirts and a cake. He was so happy with his shirts! He seems happy, period. Mamaw was having a bad day. Some days are like that. I hope it passes soon, for Steve and Papaw's sakes.

Fun on Wheels

Have Camper, Will Travel!

We bought a motor home today! With our kids spread out all over this great land, it seems an opportune time to do like so many other baby boomers and buy a get-away house on wheels. Plus, we need to take an occasional break from the constant demands of this old house we live in. We'll begin getting it ready to roll this weekend (which means loading our stuff, since it's good to go) and drive to Houston for the wedding in it. Then we'll get ready to head north to Oklahoma for spring break. It's a little shorter than our last one (32') but has two slide-outs, which really make it seem roomy when it's parked. We're taking dogs, golf clubs, good eats, and hauling the jeep. The only thing better is when we can load up kids and grandkids for adventures. I'll post photos when we bring it home.

Spring is coming!

The bulbs James planted for us and the ones that have been here for many, many years are coming up. It's so nice to see this sign of spring--it's been a cold winter in our old house!

Happy Birthday Allison and Dade!

Five years ago, Allison had a memorable birthday when Dade made his "surprise" visit. Since then, she had shared her day with a very special little boy who is rapidly growing into a big boy who is smart, handsome, adorable, and has personality plus. Good job, Allison! (BTW, I couldn't find a photo of Allison that didn't have one of her little ones in her arms. I'll bet that surprises no one.)

Valentine's Day Plus

We had lots of company for Valentine's Day Weekend. I picked up James and Joshua after school Friday and that was the start of the fun. We went out to eat and James tried to bet PaPa that he could eat a whole 1/2 pound burger from Cracker Barrel. Luckily for James, PaPa wouldn't bet, because he couldn't begin to finish it. Meanwhile, Joshua is slowly and steadily eating while James is trying to give reasons he can't. After eating all his French fries, one after the other, Josh tackled his burger and ate every bite. Kind of like the tortoise and the hare. After a good night's sleep, James went with PaPa to the farm and helped clean up. Joshua and I took Mamaw out to lunch and shopping at Wal-Mart. He behaved very well, and I was proud of him. Once again, he steadily and slowly devoured his lunch at Traditions, eating every kernel of corn before both chicken legs and then his bread. He doesn't mix his food--each item in it's time. When one thing's finished, he moves on to the next. Cindy and Ray went to Houston for a swim meet, to Waco to pick up Tyner, then back to Houston. Then they headed to Tyler, where we were happy to see Tyner. He is getting so tall, and looking really good. After lots more food, and some visiting, Ray took Tyner back to Waco and we took Cindy and the little ones home. By the time we got home, it was time to get ready to call it a night Sunday. Another full weekend, but lots of good family fun.

Sunday's looking better...

Papaw has been really sick, but he's feeling better this morning. And, hopefully, Mamaw's mood will improve as his health improves. It's not been good lately. We went to an old friend's funeral yesterday before going to see Mamaw and Papaw, so today is going to be a better day. Rodney's gone to the Farm to clean up a little, and I'm finally going to take down the Christmas garlands outside. I've been telling myself they're winter garlands, and it's still winter, but that excuse is wearing thin. Then it's off to the grocery store for Super Bowl goodies. I have a new recipe for chili (that's unusual but really good), and it's a chilly chili day, and that's a perfect Super Bowl main menu item.

Last weekend we went to Edom, a little town outside of Tyler. They have two incredible eating spots, The Shed and the Edom Bakery. This quaint little village has several little artsy shops with a festival in the spring and another in the fall. The spring festival is family oriented, something to do with a trail ride. The fall one focuses on art. Sounds like fun, and I told Rodney we have to take all of you when you come for the food and shops. The Shed is listed in Texas Monthly as one of the best small town restaurants in the state, for good reason. And the Bakery has incredible hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads. And this family does enjoy good food.